If you are looking to start out with something a little larger than a beginner scope and want to spend the time to learn the sky instead of relying on a computer to slew the scope over to each object, this is the package for you.

When I first started in amateur astronomy, I did as most beginners and purchased a department store telescope that advertised the most power. (700x I believe) Unfortunately, again like most beginners, I found that the advertised power was impossible due to the size of the telescope and more importantly the lack of stability of the mount.